Lloyd’s Register and Pusan National University are collaborating to develop what is expected to be the first joint framework for liquid hydrogen carriers, a move aimed at accelerating the safe commercialisation of hydrogen shipping and supporting the future clean energy trade.
The partnership is focused on creating technical standards, design guidance, and safety protocols for vessels transporting liquid hydrogen at extremely low temperatures. Liquid hydrogen must be stored at around minus 253°C, making containment systems, insulation technology, and cargo handling procedures critical challenges for shipbuilders and operators.
Industry experts view the initiative as an important step toward establishing confidence in a sector still in its early stages. Clear classification rules and engineering frameworks are considered essential before large-scale investment can flow into hydrogen carrier fleets, terminals, and global supply chains.
Lloyd’s Register brings maritime classification and regulatory expertise, while Pusan National University contributes advanced research capabilities in naval architecture, cryogenic systems, and marine engineering. Together, the two organisations aim to bridge academic innovation with real-world industry standards.
The development comes as countries and energy companies explore hydrogen as a long-term low-carbon fuel for power generation, heavy industry, and transport. Maritime shipping is expected to play a crucial role in moving hydrogen from production centres to demand markets, much like LNG trade today.
If successful, the framework could help shipowners, yards, and investors move faster on vessel development while improving safety and regulatory certainty. It may also position South Korea and global maritime partners at the forefront of the emerging hydrogen shipping economy.
